Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says Rafa Benitez's constant positional changes have made him a world class player. The Kop star said: "OK, he has played me in different positions.

"But I feel a lot more comfortable now in that I can play almost anywhere on the pitch. Rafa has taken my game to the next level. I feel since he's been here my game has come on in leaps and bounds - he's certainly improved me as a player.

"There are some games when I have to change my style of play. If it is a big game, for example, I realise that I can't just be bombing into the box all the time.

"There are times when I have to be a bit more disciplined. We'll have to wait and see where I'll play for the majority of the season. But I know I can fit into a number of positions and do a job for the team."

Gerrard also revealed how the Spanish manager is such a stickler for perfection that he picks everyone up on the slightest mistake - and that is just the way he likes it.

He added: "I'd prefer to have a manager like Rafa who will tell me where I'm going wrong and where I need to readjust slightly.

"I have played for managers who perhaps won't pull you on the things you're doing wrong.

"That's not going to get you anywhere, is it? But he's the kind of manager who doesn't let anything go."